ADD/ADHD Q & A
What is ADD/ADHD?
ADD/ADHD is a disorder that affects the brain by causing inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. Children with ADD/ADHD may have a hard time completing a task or following directions, be more disruptive in class, or have a greater tendency to do things before thinking.
Getting treatment early for ADD/ADHD may improve your child’s learning and development.
What is difference between ADHD and ADD?
The difference between ADD and ADHD is that children or adults diagnosed with ADD lack the hyperactivity associated with ADHD. However, ADD is a subclass of ADHD.
To improve diagnosis, Dr. Erickson divides a diagnosis of ADHD into one of three subcategories, including:
ADHD, predominantly inattentive type, formally known as ADD
ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type
Most children are the combined type of ADHD.
What are the Symptoms of ADHD?
Symptoms of ADHD vary but may include:
Inattention: Difficulty completing a task or following instructions
Hyperactivity-impulsivity: Poor decisions or speaking out of turn
It’s normal for children to be hyperactive and have some amount of inattention. However, you may be concerned if your child’s inattention or hyperactivity is severe enough that it’s affecting school or social activities.
This is true in adults, too, and may affect your ability to do your job.
Dr. Erickson provides a diagnosis for ADHD only after a thorough evaluation. ADHD may be present if the symptoms are chronic, impair normal activities, and cause a delay in normal development.
How is ADHD managed?
There’s no cure for ADHD, and treatment aims to manage symptoms and improve attention or lessen hyperactivity. Dr. Erickson uses a combination of medication, talk therapy, and education to manage ADHD.
Many parents worry about giving their children medication for ADHD. Dr. Erickson works closely with you to develop the right treatment plan for you and your child.
To help you manage ADHD without medication, Dr. Erickson offers behavioral therapy for you and your child, as well as skills training to manage stress.
